Goa is a state on the southwestern coast of India within the region known as the Konkan and geographically separated from the Deccan highlands by the Western Ghats. It is surrounded by the Indian states of Maharashtra to the north and Karnataka to the east and south, with the Arabian Sea forming its western coast. It is India’s smallest state by area and the fourth-smallest by population.
Goa stands out in India for its Portuguese colonial architecture and heritage. The Portuguese arrived in Goa in 1510, lured by the exotic East and the promise of lucrative spice routes, before being booted out in 1961. Their indelible mark is still evident in the state’s baroque architecture, whitewashed churches, crumbling forts, colorful Catholic ceremonies, mournful fado music, and the stunning cathedrals of Old Goa.
At a distance of 14 km from Panjim Kadamba Bus Stand, 10 km from Mapusa and 41 km from Vasco Da Gama Railway Station, Calangute Beach is the largest beach in North Goa and one of the best tourist places to visit in Goa. The beach is often represented in the promotion of Goa Tourism.
Calangute beach
Calangute beach is also called the ‘Queen of beaches’ in Goa and among the best beaches in Goa. As stories go on, hippies had discovered this beach during the ’60s so is it famous since then. Calangute along with Candolim, Baga, and Anjuna form part of the stretch of beach extending from just outside Panaji city to Fort Aguada. Calangute Beach is a 4-mile long beach that lies between Baga and Candolim beach. It is also among the top beaches of Goa.
Baga Beach
One of the most popular beaches in North Goa, Baga Beach is located close to Calangute beach, around 30 Km North of Panaji. It is so named after the ‘Baga creek’ which flows into the Arabian Sea. Baga is the perfect destination for you if you wish to witness the excellent nightlife of Goa as signature places such as Britto’s, Tito’s, and Mambos have made their mark in their hearts of party-goers. The shacks come to life in the late evening with some pumping music and mouthwatering food.
It is also famous for its designer stores as well as its street-side markets where you can shop till your feet ache and your wallet grumbles! Being one of the most visited beaches in the North, Baga also has a vast range of water sports that you can try your hands at. Grab a sumptuous breakfast at Infantaria – a highly recommended eatery, relax by the beach all day, and in the evening let the party animal in you come alive – it’s all possible at Baga Beach. Baga Beach is considered to be the extension of Calangute Beach itself since both of these lies on the same stretch of the shore.
Vagator Beach
Vagator Beach in Goa offers tourists and travel enthusiasts the opportunity to have an experience of a lifetime. It is situated on the absolute northern fringes of Bardez Taluka, on the opposite side of the river Chapora, which starts from Morjim in Pernem. Towards the south of the Vagator Beach lies Anjuna, one of the oldest tourist destinations in Goa.
Vagator beach is adorned with picturesque red cliffs that look down to two freshwater springs that are a stone’s throw distance from the sea. The beach is mainly divided by a seaside headland which acts as a prime spot for car parking and several small stalls that sell clothes, food, and an assortment of trinkets and souvenirs. When facing the sea from the headland, on the right lies the North Vagator Beach or locally known as ‘Big Vagator’, while on the left lies the Ozran Beach or what is known as ‘Little Vagator Beach’.
Colva Beach
Lying on the shores of a quaint coastal village in Goa, Colva beach is a truly magnificent vacation spot for all tourists. It stretches for an impressive 2.4 km and features striking white sand, turquoise waves, and towering coconut palms. Tourists from around the world frequent the Colva beach for sights of stunning sunsets and remarkable blue waves.